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‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Star Sara Ramirez Exits Series After 10 Years as Callie: See Her Emotional Comments

Warning: Spoilers ahead for Grey’s Anatomy‘s Thursday, May 19, season 12 finale!

So long, Callie! Sara Ramirez announced on Thursday, May 19, that she is leaving Grey’s Anatomy after 10 years of playing Dr. Callie Torres on the hit ABC medical drama.

Related: PHOTOS: 10 Times 'Grey's Anatomy' Season 12 Made Us Flip Out!

In a statement released to Us Weekly on the same day that Grey’s aired its season 12 finale, the actress — who joined the show late in season 2 — thanked her colleagues and series creator Shonda Rhimes, adding that she was looking forward to some down time.

Sara Ramirez
Ramirez on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’

“I’m deeply grateful to have spent the last 10 years with my family at Grey’s Anatomy and ABC, but for now I’m taking some welcome time off,” Ramirez, 40, said. “Shonda’s been so incredible to work for, and we will definitely continue our conversations! I send my love to Ellen [Pompeo], the rest of the cast and crew, and I look forward to always being a part of the Shondaland family!”

Related: PHOTOS: Best TV Couples of All Time

Rhimes issued a statement praising Ramirez’s work on the show and wishing her well in the future.

“Dr. Callie Torres came into our lives dancing it out in her underwear almost a decade ago, and I could not be happier or more proud of her journey,” the prolific TV producer said. “Sara Ramirez’s performance inspired me as well as millions of fans each week. We wish her the best on her well-deserved time off. I will miss Callie tremendously, but am excited for what the future holds for Sara. She will always have a home at Shondaland.”

On Thursday, Ramirez tweeted her appreciation for her run as the orthopedic surgeon: “#GreysAnatomy #CallieTorres #Gratitude #Love #Shondaland.”

Related: PHOTOS: Stars — They're Just Like Us!

The season 12 finale ended with Arizona (Jessica Capshaw) — who recently won custody of Sofia in a bitter court battle with Callie — telling her ex to take their daughter with her as she heads to New York with girlfriend Penny (Samantha Sloyan).

Fans of the series speculated that Ramirez might be leaving after the Broadway veteran posted an ominous tweet last month.

“That’s a wrap for Doctor #CallieTorres #Season13 #GreysAnatomy #ThankYou all for an enriching & unforgettable #Rollercoaster ride!” the actress tweeted on April 28.

Tell Us: Will you miss seeing Callie on Grey’s Anatomy, or is this an appropriate time for her to exit?

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